Goal 5: Affordable Aging

As described in the CA Master Plan for Aging, this goal focuses on economic security which is essential to living and aging well. This goal recognizes changes in individuals no longer able to rely on their past income, which consisted of a combination of individual savings, employer-paid pensions and Social Security.

California Strategies for this goal are:​

• End Older Adult Homelessness​
• Income Security as We Age​
• Protection from Poverty & Hunger

Orange County Results

Key Findings

Participants generally did not rate their communities favorably regarding financial or legal planning services and 15% of participants identified cost of living/economic instability as contributing to their medical and behavioral health concerns. In addition, those reporting the lowest household incomes (i.e., < $25,000 annually) were also the most likely to be concerned about making ends meet financially and about becoming homeless. From a long-term planning perspective, it is important to note that 59% of participants owned their own home and that home ownership rates were highest among participants in the older age groups. This suggests that as the Orange County population continues to age, there may be fewer homeowners over time and an increasing proportion of residents living in rental properties or other potentially less stable housing settings. As such, Orange County communities should consider identifying potential strategies on how to support the housing needs and housing stability of its residents, thereby maximizing their options for living and aging well in place.

Community Ratings

Financial/Legal Planning

Financial Security

“Not Being Able to Make Ends Meet Financially” 14% of participants identified as a top 3 concern

Click on the category below to view percentages for subgroups with 100 or more responses.

Unhoused

“Becoming Homeless” 5% of participants identified as a top 3 concern

Click on the category below to view percentages for subgroups with 100 or more responses.